As of December 3, 2019, you need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) if you’re applying within Canada as a
- foreign worker (including extending your work permit)
- international student (including extending your study permit)
- visa-required visitor (including extending your stay)
- permanent resident
Who needs to give their fingerprints and photo (biometrics)
As of December 3, 2019, you need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) if you’re applying within Canada as a
- foreign worker (including extending your work permit)
- international student (including extending your study permit)
- visa-required visitor (including extending your stay)
- permanent resident
You can give your biometrics at a designated Service Canada location. Make sure you follow all the steps to give your biometrics, including paying the biometrics fee, when you apply.
Steps to give your biometrics
1. Pay the biometrics fee
You must pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application. Otherwise you may experience delays.
Exception: There is no fee to give biometrics for a transit visa.
2. Get the instruction letter
After you pay the biometrics fee, you’ll get a letter confirming that you need to give your biometrics and where you can go. You need to bring this letter when you give your biometrics. You also need to bring your valid passport.
How fast you get the letter depends on how you apply and when you pay for your biometrics fees. Answer a few questions to find out.
3. Go to an official biometrics collection service point
You must give your biometrics in person.
Tips to get the best photos and fingerprints during your biometrics appointment
- Keep your hands henna-free for your appointment.
- Let temporary injuries, cuts, cracks on your fingers heal before giving your biometrics.
- Avoid wearing light color clothing or head gear. Wear bright colours instead.
- Head gear is allowed for religious purposes only. However, when you have your photo taken, your whole face must be clearly visible.
Note: If we can’t get high quality fingerprints during your appointment, you may need to give your biometrics again at a later date.
You need to make an appointment to give your biometrics.